They have all the paddle options but best of all they also have sup yoga! How does this even work? They have buoys with carabiners where you clip the end of your paddle to so you don't drift off. The instructor and staff helps you get clipped in. And then from there the instructor guides you through a yoga session in water, sun, wind elements. read more

See all

Brittingham Boats has been one of my favorite summer traditions for years. I drive from the Milwaukee area at least once every summer specifically to kayak here, and I've always loved the whole experience. They offer kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and pedal boats, plus a beach for swimming. There's a cute little snack shop with really yummy grilled cheese sandwiches and beverages, T-shirts for sale, and a deck with tables and chairs, plus chaise lounges where you can relax in the sun. They also offer special events like burgers on the bay, where you kayak out to a pontoon boat where they're grilling burgers and other special event events throughout the summer. One of the things that makes this spot so special is the location. Brittingham Boats sits on Lake Monona, just west of John Nolen Drive, with largest section of Lake Monona and the Monona Terrace on the other side of the drive. In a normal summer, one of my favorite paddles is heading east, under the railroad bridge and John Nolen Drive, and out onto Lake Monona. From there, you can paddle along the shoreline and hang out near Monona Terrace, enjoying the views, watching the other kayakers and boaters, and even spotting plenty of open-water swimmers--many of whom I imagine are training for IRONMAN Wisconsin, held right here every September. There are also several different routes available depending on how far you want to explore, including paddles that can take you toward Lake Mendota and Lake Wingra, as well as routes in the direction of Olbrich Botanical Gardens and other scenic areas around Madison. **A note for summer 2026:** construction along John Nolen Drive appears to have interrupted that usual route, and I don't believe you can currently paddle through to Lake Monona. When I got there last Friday the weather turned and I didn't go out but from the looks of the construction going on, you can't get under John Nolan Drive Here's why I was especially disappointed when I visited last Friday, for the first time this year. Unfortunately, the property looked tired and neglected. It felt as though it had been opened for the season but hadn't received cleaning-just opened the doors--areas needed sweeping, weeds and landscaping needed trimming, cobwebs needed removing, and several things could really benefit from cleaning, fresh paint and general maintenance. The bathrooms were especially disappointing. They were very rundown and so wet that I honestly didn't want to touch anything. I'm sharing this because I really DO love this place and want to continue coming back. Brittingham Boats has so much going for it--the location, the activities and the atmosphere are wonderful. I just hope some time, attention and investment can be put into cleaning up and refreshing the place. A little TLC would go a very long way toward bringing back the charming place I've enjoyed making a special trip to visit every summer. read more

We went to the Burgers on the Bay event and had a great time. Of course the weather was perfect and the lake was calm and easy to paddle. The burgers were good altough there was quite a line to get them, however...the band was entertaining while we were in line for the burgers! I would recommend it as the perfect way to unwind on a Friday evening!!!! read more

I've been a member with Brittingham for 2 years now and I absolutely love it. They staff are friendly and the lake access is unparalleled. You can select lake membership or get access to all 3 (Monona, Mendota, Wingra) for about $150 and it is WORTH IT. I don't have to lug my own kayak and paddles from home and to the lake every time I want to get on the lake. I have rented the electric little putt putt boats and those were also fun! The staff are always lovely and welcoming. They are fun and customer service oriented. I'll keep coming back. read more

See all

the staff have been consistently amazing for as long as I have gone, 10 years! The rental process is seamless as well.

Was in town from Greenbay, was an impulsive same day decision to come here and we werent aware it was gonna rain. got a one hour reservation and it started raining 15 min in so we didn't even get to enjoy it. wish it didn't rain, would have been super relaxing, worth the money even just for an hour. hopefully next time we stop in it won't rain read more

For the most part, I absolutely love renting from their location. Kayaks are dog friendly, staff is kind. Our last visit I was a little upset, when we returned. The staff barley pulled our kayak out of the water. So when my sister was getting out, the boat was 90% in the water. She fell getting out of the boat. Then the lady was rushing me to grab my belongings and go, so someone else can use the kayak. When I tried getting out, I fell and scrapped my knee. At that point I asked the women to move so I can pull the kayak out of the water. This is the the first time I had a issue, out of the multiple times we rented from this location. But the fact safety was not a concern, really bugs me. read more

We've visited x 3 this summer, each time trying something new! The paddle boats, kayaks, and paddle boards were all in tip-top condition and we felt as though our health was held in the highest regards re: covid. Everyone followed social distancing, masks were required, and they were diligent about cleaning. Thank you for the fun! read more

See all

We rented a paddle boat on Saturday afternoon and had the best time! The employees checking us in and helping us get onto the boat were so friendly, and they make it easy to fill out the waivers in advance so you can walk right down to the water upon arriving. Such a relaxing, fun, inexpensive way to spend a summer afternoon! read more

Brittingham Boats - View of Madison from our paddle boat! - Boating Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Service was great, kids had a great time and we'd go back. The young lady at the pier was very friendly and helpful.

First time kayaking and Brittingham Boats made it such an easy process to register and enjoy an hour on the lake. We decided to go last minute, so the only boat available to where we didn't have to wait too long was a tandem kayak. We had a great time and the staff was very nice and easy to work with. I will definitely come back and try paddle boarding next time! read more

Brittingham Boats - Tandem Kayak - Boating Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

This is our second year with a couples membership at Brittingham. They have SUP, single and double kayaks, canoes and paddleboats. With membership, you check in, choose your paddle or oar and head to the landing. The team is waiting there to help you in the water. It's one of the best deals in town, too. We love SUP and took a couple lessons at Rutabega. After Rutabega became a little annoying to deal with (renting us a board without a fin and not being willing to swap it, requiring renters to wear shoes - really?), we decided to check out Brittingham. The rental options are affordable and plentiful here at B-ham. The staff are friendly and laid back. They are always willing to give you a couple quick pointers on your way out and answer any questions you have. They also have a great patio with nice seating. I haven't tried it yet, but they offer gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches which sound great! They also have ice cream, sodas and French press coffee. I love to chill on their patio after paddling. Stephan Reinke, the owner, is almost always here. He has a great demeanor and deals well with the customers. He's very accommodating and wants everyone to have a good time. Also, it is GREAT what this business has done to clean up what was once a scary park in town. What a great asset to this neighborhood and the entire city. read more

Tried a solo canoe for the 1st time. Got advise and launch assist from helpful staff. Fun ride!

This is our second summer as members here, and it's one of our favorite places to spend a summer afternoon. (Membership is not required, they also do regular rentals. In fact, memberships sold out really fast this year). They have stand up paddleboards (SUP), canoes, kayaks, and even a couple of paddleboats. Monona Bay is a perfect place to get started, and you can venture out to Lake Monona if you want. They also have various events: SUP yoga, lessons, even races on Thursday nights. After paddling, it's nice to chill on the patio for a while with a (non-alcoholic, City rules) beverage or a snack. The staff is super helpful and fun. The whole place has a great, energetic vibe about it. Brittingham Boats has also brought a very positive kind of traffic to this city park, which had been a big blighted in the past. read more

I was able to book online easily their first weekend reopening for the season. It was easy to follow instructions at the boat house for social distancing and obtaining the gear. They are going above and beyond to make sure everyone has a safe visit. It felt great to be back out on the water! I am so thankful to have them in my neighborhood. read more

Brittingham Boats - Boating Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Very reasonably price for a fun, active time out on the water with friends! Staff has typically been relatively friendly and helpful. I've rented both kayaks and paddle boards from them and have found the equipment to be as expected with rentals. I've also been for a Full Moon Paddle which was a memorable experience. There was fire in the middle of the lake (on an anchored canoe), food, and live music. read more

Had such a great time! The check in procedure was flawless and staff were very friendly. Boats were in great condition and the location is beautiful with access to Monona bay and lake Monona. Definitely will be back! read more

This has been my second year with a season's pass to all three Madison Boats boathouses, and it's been totally great. Gotten out at least 2-3 times a week, exploring the bay, lake and river. Sometimes a leisurely paddle, more often a serious workout. Cardio AND upper-body work, can't beat it. Staff is friendly and courteous, everything very well-run. Hate to see the season end, but I'll be back next year. read more

It's a gem on Monona Bay. I live a couple blocks away and joined as a member this summer. It was one of the highlights of my summer, and I HIGHLY recommend the membership if you are going to go often (over 10 times). It's the best deal to get the two person membership ($245) vs ($180) for single. The staff is AWESOME - super chill but they take their job seriously and hustle for you. Equipment is in top shape and there is a ton of variety - like from really basic easy-to-balance on all the way to performance paddleboards. The kayak and paddleboard paddles are ergonomic and pretty good. Prices are fair - usually about $16 first hour and decreasing to $10 per hour after that, if you're not a member. read more

This review is for the "cafe" portion. Pretty cool spot for super cheap $2.00/cup french press coffee. I love the deck they built, which overlooks the bay. I stopped by for a leisurely morning coffee with my bf on Sunday morning and had a lovely time. They are just starting to offer classes on paddle board yoga, kayak etc - I can't wait to sign up for the moonlight paddle series! read more

I went paddleboarding here for the first time yesterday and it was an incredible amount of fun. The staff are great and very friendly. The paddleboard was $16 for the entire time (~2 hours) but I think they might charge you by the hour when it's busier. They accept credit cards which was appreciated and only one member of the group had to show an ID. We had free reign of the lake and went all the way over to the Terrace. You get to see views of the Capitol that you'll never get from the road. Highly recommended! I fell in a couple of times after mooning people on the Terrace but, hey, that's life. If you haven't gone paddleboarding before and have any anxiety - get over it and try these guys out - you won't regret it. Well, you might regret it, but that probably is indicative of a larger problem with your overall life outlook. read more

Hurry! You only have a few weeks left to spend an awesome afternoon on the water via kayak or SUP. The staff here is sooo nice. Really enjoyed just talking to the interesting people who work there. If you stay out for a little over an hour most places would charge you for two but Brittingham let's you get off the hook with one. You can play it safe and drift around in Monona Bay or you can go into the actual lake. Stand up paddle boarding or kayaking (tandem or single) are perfect ways to enjoy the lake without having to splurge on an expensive motor boat rental. you'll also get a bit of a workout without overly extend in yourself! They also apparently have SUP yoga which I really, really want to try. $30 seems a little much but I guess you are paying for the rental and the yoga instruction. Will definitely have to try next summer! read more

Just went today. Rented a stand up paddle board. You pay for an hour at 16$ but since you can't really wear a watch unless it's water proof you don't know the time. We ended up coming back 20 mins early and were already on land before we knew. The people are really nice there. I think there were lockers but we just left our shoes and clothes on the ground near a tree. read more

Had a great Sun(filled)day at Brittingham Boats! Took some kayaks out on Lake Monona and relaxed in their lawn chairs. The staff is super friendly and helpful, prices are extremely reasonable and the location cannot be beat! read more

Brittingham Boats - Boating Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Rented a paddle boat for an hour for $20. Super easy process they just need one driver's license to rent equipment, and a staff member will hook you up at the dock and then they just let you into the wild on the lake! They supply you with life vests and you can choose to wear them or not. Also a lot of people were bringing their dogs on the boats! They also have live music, food, and plenty of lawn chairs, and hammocks. Great place to just chill read more

I am super bummed to report that Brittingham Boats no longer serves grilled cheese! 4 stars because I'm so sad about this! Other than that, it still remains one of my favorite places to spend a sunny afternoon. On top of their fun rental options they have also been expanding their options for special events. From ice cream floats, to full moon paddle events, and stand up paddle board yoga workshops there is always something fun happening at Brittingham Boats. Also, even if you're not interested in paddling it's still worth stopping by! They often have live music and a fire going. A nice place to spend time, for sure! read more

Great price and so easy to rent a kayak for a few hours! Their team seemed to work really hard and we're very helpful!

Nice attendants, reasonable prices, awesome atmosphere!

The people who work here are totally clueless and unorganized. I have been down several times and put on a wait list where we waited for an hour and then realized we were accidentally "skipped". We asked where we should wait and the guy working had no idea, he just said he would find us. He didn't. The people working here are all college-age and although friendly, totally clueless. Once we got out on the lake, it's awesome! Not bad prices, either. read more

Awesome place to hang out for a day in the sun! They serve food there but also allow you to bring your own food and enjoy it on their patio. The menu is still in the making but their signature grilled cheese, " The Brittingham" is delicious. Staff is friendly and very knowledgeable about the different types of vessels and boards. The stand-up paddle boards are my favorite-- great for maximum sun exposure and fun to ride Prices are fair but it is very much worth it to invest in a seasonal membership if you plan on returning a lot. They offer single, couple, and family ones as well as frequent boater punch cards for those who don't want to throw down for a membership. In response to the comment about alcohol down below.... I want to start by saying I have never had my personal belongings searched for alcohol nor have I witnessed it happening to others either, and I visit this place a lot. That being said, this is a brand new boat house in a park that prohibits alcohol. The owners are still trying to establish themselves in the neighborhood as a family-friendly and -oriented place. The last thing they want is for guests to start getting rowdy on the patio and making other patrons feel uncomfortable, not to mention a huge fine from the city for allowing them to consume it. I don't blame the staff for taking all precautions necessary to ensure alcohol stays off the premise. read more

I can't say enough wonderful things about this place. From the moment you arrive, it's a stellar experience. Plenty of parking, with over flow on the street if it's super busy. The staff couldn't be friendlier! Great, knowledge folks who welcome you with a smile and get you set up with all the right equipment. They'll also give you the low down on wind conditions for the day and what to expect. We rent kayaks pretty regularly, but they also have canoes, paddle boards, tandem kayaks and paddle boats, and they have a punch card where every 7th rental is free! Great, easy access to lake monona, with a striking view of the terrace and Capitol. If it's windy, or you're not feeling brave, you can stay in the bay. They provide zip lock bags for your phone if you need one, and have lockers on site also. Reasonable prices. Can spend about as much for 2 hours in a kayak as I would for 2 hours in a bar, and feel much better about myself after! read more

Brittingham Boats - 10-20 minute paddle to the Monona Terrace depending on wind. - Boating Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

It was my favorite place to spend free time this summer! It is not too crowded yet so you can go there and enjoy wonderful water activities. I'd definitely recommend getting a membership, it's more reasonable. Staff is very friendly. I love their coffee shop. French press coffee and a sandwich is all you need after being on the water for a few hours. I came there a few times just to work on my computer. Beautiful scenery! Can't wait for them to reopen in spring! read more

Rented a tandem kayak. Enjoyed a nice paddle on the lake for a couple hours. Staff was friendly and nice.

I would not rent a canoe, kayak, or any type of boating device from heathery is four people behind the counter and none of them are doing anything nor can work the cash register. They will search your cooler for beer, and follow you to your car to make sure you take it all out and they go through any bags you have with checking for alcohol. If you don't have your driver's licenses they wont rent a canoe for collateral. read more

They just started making their own pizza and it's delightfully crispy. Really nice patio with a lake view. Oh yeah, and you can rent kayaks and paddle boards. What's not to love? read more

These guys were awesome! I flew into Madison, went directly here and they got me out on the water within minutes, while they watched my luggage. They were friendly, reasonably priced and knowledgeable. I took a stand-up paddle board out and had a great time touring Downtown's shoreline. read more

My son and I spent a wonderful morning here in the summer. We rented a canoe for an hour for $12, then sat at the cafe and drank cheap french press coffee while using the free wifi, playing free foosball, and enjoying the view of the lake. The staff were very friendly and helpful, the boating was fun, and the coffee was good. What more could you ask for? We will definitely be returning. read more

This place is great! Kayaks and paddle boards for rent. Everyone working here has a GREAT attitude. They have complimentary bug spray too. Lake is great, recommend going under the bridge if you want to hop in the water as there's a fair amount of kelp in the immediate lake. Definitely come here for a fun afternoon on the water! read more

I've taken the family to Brittingham boats a bunch of times now. They have a good assortment of kayaks, stand up paddleboards, canoes, and watercraft. What I like about this spot is there is the option to stay on the calmer Monona Bay or you can venture out as far as you want into Lake Monona. So you get the best of both worlds. The staff is always very friendly and relaxed. And they have a nice outdoor deck area with plenty of seating, games, and free wifi. I know the business does a lot to try and keep the lakes clean. And it's nice to see someone come in and try to revitalize what was once just a rundown park shelter. Keep up the good work. read more

Very friendly staff! Enjoyed the day on there stand up paddle boards. Would recommend the company for a fun day on the lake with there rentals. read more